The Best Lavalier Mic
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Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Lavalier Microphones
Having a good microphone can make or break the audio and video of various applications. Only a few people think of it much but a great microphone can make the difference between a professional, polished production and content that seems amateur at best.
Most people are familiar with the microphone used on stage or in the studio. While those microphones are incredible, they’re often big or bulky, and sometimes, they just aren’t the best thing to use in particular applications.
Instead of a boom mic or more extensive mic types, some opt to use a lavalier microphone, otherwise known as a lapel mic. Known for their small and discreet footprint, lavalier microphones are clipped onto the subject — often onto the lapels of jackets, hence its name — and record sound directly into a wireless transmitter or an audio recording device.
They are often used in interviews, presentations, broadcasts, and live productions as body mics, clip mics, and recording devices. Lapel mics also make a great option for podcasting or creating YouTube videos. They prefer this as Lavalier microphones are easy to maneuver, good at handling noise, and discreet. They are also chosen as these high-quality mics provide great sound and audio for audio production.
Today, we’ve compiled a list of the best Lavalier microphones in the market that have surpassed ratings. From high-end to beginner-friendly lapel mics, you’ll be able to find the best option for you. Check them out!
What is the Best Lavalier Microphone?
Editor's Choice  Best Overall |  Best Premium |  Best Studio Lavalier Mic |
Rode SmartLav+Considered one of the best Lavalier microphones, Rode SmartLav is a top choice among professionals, content creators, interviewers, and more. | Shure MVLFor interviews and lectures, this microphone has a high signal-to-noise ratio, extreme durability, and is very versatile. | Sony ECM77BSony ECM77B is the top choice among professionals in a studio and in a radio station as it's lightweight and has a wide frequency. |
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Let’s Go Over Each Microphone
#1: Røde SmartLav+
If you’re a content creator who wants to record professional-quality sound on the go, look no further as the Røde SmartLav+ is one of the best lavalier microphones. This light and compact Lavalier microphone makes recording easier with its unparalleled convenience.
Unlike other mics, the Rode SmartLav+ Lavalier mic doesn’t require any complicated setup. It’s essentially a plug-and-play lapel mic that’s equipped with a jack that fits most phones, allowing you to record audio anytime, anywhere that you need to.
The Rode SmartLav+ has a rugged build and a cable length of 1.2m, reinforced with Kevlar, allowing you to take it in and out of your bag as much as you want to without worrying about it breaking down. The Rode SmartLav+ has an omnidirectional pickup pattern, keeping the subject’s pickup volume at maximum no matter the orientation when attached to the speaker.
With its frequency response rate of 20Hz to 20kHz, it provides a sound that has rich, warm lows and crisp highs. This omnidirectional Lavalier microphone also has a built-in windscreen to reduce wind noise and plosives. Moreover, the SmartLav+ is also compatible with the Rode SC6-L kit that includes a lightning adapter in the box.
The Rode SmartLav+ also pairs well with the Rode Rec app, giving users access to a range of predetermined EQ settings as well as numerous easy-to-navigate editing functions. Whether you’re a beginner in content creation or an established professional looking for a great microphone, the Rode SmartLav+ will be a fantastic choice.
Pros and Cons of the Røde SmartLav+
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Compatible with both iOS and Android devices ✔ Broadcast-quality sound ✔ Offers rich, crisp natural sound | ✖️ Cable may require extension |
#2: Shure MVL
One of the best lavalier microphones to use in interviews, lectures, and films is the Shure MVL. This premium-quality mic brings out the character in a person’s voice, resulting in a full, distinct, and clear result.
Its high signal-to-noise ratio, pop filter, and built-in interference protection provide audio that is free of any unwanted noise. Additionally, the Shure MVL also comes with a foam windscreen to block out wind noise. No matter how loud your audio may be, the sound pressure level of this mic will ensure that there will be no distortion.
This is considered one of the best Lavalier mics as it’s built with the legendary durability of Shure microphones, the Shure MVL can certainly hold up to years of frequent use both indoors and on the go. Its omnidirectional pattern won’t miss out on any details, capable of delivering microphone quality, isolating your voice from your surroundings.
The MVL has a cord that’s 52 inches long and requires no batteries to use, making it a great option for any user who wants outstanding sound quality without needing to use any complicated equipment, although it’s not available in USB-C ports. Shure has included a windscreen, clip, and carrying pouch in the MVL’s package.
Pros and Cons of the Shure MVL
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Has a low-profile design ✔ High signal-to-noise ratio ✔ Connects to smartphones via the headphone jack | ✖️ Cord is quite thin |
#3: Sony ECM77B
A legendary mic that’s great to use in the studio is the Sony ECM77B. Commonly used in both television and radio productions, the ECM 77B is one of the smallest lavalier mics in the world with the diameter of its capsule measuring 5.6mm. The Sony ECM 77b’s low profile makes it a very lightweight microphone that can be easily attached to any speaker even if they are moving.
It has an operating frequency range of 40Hz to 20kHz and a sensitivity of -52.0 dD. Due to its wide frequency and high sensitivity, the ECM77B can capture good acoustic recordings. It offers full and natural sound quality without any background noise.
Moreover, the ECM77B can be powered in two ways, either via an AA battery or phantom power. Aside from the studio, the Sony ECM77B can also be used to record outdoors, thanks to the windscreen packaged along with it.
Pros and Cons of the Sony ECM77B
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Can be powered via phantom power or battery power (AA) ✔ Small and compact capsule ✔ Excellent frequency response range | ✖️ Pricey |
#4: Sennheiser MKE 40
Made by one of the leading brands in the industry, you can be sure that the MKE 40 can provide you with audio that has incredible quality. Its great frequency response allows it to stand out as a great mic for vocals.
Utilizing a cardioid pickup pattern, the MKE 40 keeps unwanted sound at bay. The MKE 40’s crisp and clear audio, plus its accurate bass reproduction, is praised by professional productions all over the globe.
Ideal to use in a range of applications, this mic can record audio with a high gain before reaching feedback levels. This makes it a great option for those in loud environments or live performances.
It employs a three-pin connector but it also includes a 3.5mm jack, allowing you to attach it to wireless transmitters or directly to a mobile recorder. Moreover, the MKE 40 is compatible with several Sennheiser wireless transmitters, making it a flexible choice for any creator.
Pros and Cons of the Sennheiser MKE 40
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Excellent microphone for vocals ✔ Interchangeable connection ✔ Compatible with other Sennheiser transmitters | ✖️ Expensive |
#5: Sennheiser EW 112P G4
Considered one of the most versatile wireless Lavalier microphones, the EW 112P G4 is a wireless system that’s designed for DSLR use. Composed of the ME2-II omnidirectional mic, a wireless lavalier transmitter, and a receiver, Sennheiser provides flexibility for filmmakers or content creators without the complexity of cables. The wireless systems provide ease of movement between usages. It’s wireless kits and wireless system is ideal for users who are constantly moving.
The Sennheiser EW 112P G4 features an all-metal chassis and its transmitter is lightweight, compact, and easy to conceal, offering comfort to the subject wearing it. The receiver is equally compact and easily mounted on any DSLR camera or camcorder without adding much weight.
Sennheiser has included an XLR connector and a 3.5mm jack to connect the receiver to your camera without any hitch. Both the transmitter and receiver feature daylight-readable LED displays that show the reception quality, battery status, and audio level.
These wireless omnidirectional mics pick up sound from every direction and perform well with an XLR connector. These wireless mics have a 50Hz to 18kHz operating frequency response range and are capable of handling sudden volume boosts. The 112P G4 is compatible with Sennheiser’s EW 500 wireless systems as well.
Pros and Cons of the Sennheiser EW112P G4
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Excellent microphone for vocals ✔ Interchangeable connection ✔ Compatible with other Sennheiser transmitters | ✖️ Requires a lot of batteries |
#6: Hollyland Lark C1 Wireless Lavalier Microphone
The Hollyland Lark C1 is a new lapel mic that not only Android users would love to have, but also iPhone and iPad users. This microphone features a receiver that can be plugged directly into a phone or tablet’s port so you can start recording right away.
Mobility won’t be an issue with the Lark C1 because aside from it having a wireless transmitter, it’s extremely portable. The mic is so small that it can fit in one’s pocket making it a convenient recording device of choice for on-the-go applications. It even allows you to play back your recording without unplugging the receiver from the port thus, offering more mobility and convenience.
Don’t be fooled by its small size thinking that it won’t be enough for recording high-quality audio as the Lark C1 is as clear as it gets! It has a 48 kHz/16-bit sound system and a Hi-Fi recording quality from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. To ensure exceptional sound quality and optimal sound performance, the Lark 1 even has advanced audio processing algorithms and an Active Noise Cancellation feature to avoid picking up background noise and ambient noise, while balancing out louder sounds.
Both Android and iPhone users would rejoice in using the Lark C1 because of its in-app features and settings. One can view the transmitter battery level, do real-time playback, adjust gain control and noise cancellation levels, and play around with the volume control. This ultimately allows you to adjust the sound source and come up with a recording that sounds great each time.
It’s also easy to use the Lark C1 because you can just simply clip it to the subject’s clothing and start recording off the bat. Although the mic can be visibly seen and is not as discreet as some of the other mics on this list, you at least have two color options to choose from.
Pros and Cons of the Hollyland Lark C1 Wireless Lavalier Microphone
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Compact and portable ✔ Long battery life ✔ Has a charging case ✔ Can connect directly to a phone’s port ✔ Comes in black or white | ✖️ Visible in one’s line of sight |
#7: Røde Wireless Pro
If you’re looking for a professional Lavalier, then look no further than the Røde Wireless Pro. This is a versatile Lavalier microphone that produces high-quality audio that’s designed for professionals who are looking to upgrade the recording quality of their journalism, video content creation, interviews, and even filmmaking.
The Rode Wireless Pro is equipped with plenty of features that make it the perfect lapel microphone for professional use:
- A 2.4 GHz wireless digital transmission with 128-bit encryption for near-zero latency and interference-free audio out to 260m.850 ft.
- An audio backup feature that allows individuals to have 32 GB worth of onboard storage should there be a wireless signal dropout.
- The 32-bit float of this mic’s onboard recording feature will allow individuals to capture a large dynamic range without the chances of it having any audio clippings.
- User-friendly audio sync capabilities during post-production due to its advanced timecode feature.
- A GainAssist feature so the mic system can automatically manage the optimum output levels.
- A locking feature that will prevent 3.55 mm Lavalier connectors from disconnecting while recording.
- Level control that has professional high-impedance headphone output capability.
- 7 hours battery life on each model with 2 additional charges in the charging case for longer recording sessions.
The Rode Wireless can be connected and used on numerous devices. It can be used as a DSLR microphone, in iPhones, and even Androids. This is one microphone that truly has plenty of uses and will allow you to record using different avenues.
Another great thing about the Rode Wireless Pro is that it comes with a wireless mic kit upon purchase. In the said kit, you will be provided with a charging case, two Lavaliers, furry windshields, cable for iPhone, cable for Android, magnetic mounting clips, and an accessory case. It also comes with one receiver and two transmitters to complete your wireless microphone system.
Pros and Cons of the Røde Wireless Pro
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Over 40 hours of 32-bit float on-board recording and 32 GB of onboard storage ✔ Can easily connect to a DSLR camera, a smartphone, and a computer ✔ Comes with a receiver, two transmitters, and a complete wireless kit upon purchase | ✖️ Quite expensive |
#8: PowerDeWise Professional Grade Lavalier Mic
The PowerDeWise Lavalier is another great professional microphone. This wired Lavalier microphone makes use of corded electric power, meaning it doesn’t rely on an in-line battery pack or phantom power to function.
Thanks to its universal cable connector, the PowerDeWise is compatible with a whole range of recording devices from mirrorless cameras to iPads. It also has a 3.5mm audio cable connector and a TRRS to TRS adapter. However, it does not have a lightning cable connector for recording audio with later iPhone models.
With its omnidirectional polar pattern, the PowerDeWise excellently captures sound from all directions, ensuring remarkable audio clarity and accuracy. It’s so good at what it does, it can even capture the room ambiance for your recording.
One of the best things about the PowerDeWise is its affordability. Since this is a professional-grade Lavalier, you would think it would cost you an arm and a leg. However, that is not the case with the PowerDeWise! It’s affordable, gives you good value for money, and offers great audio quality while at it.
Pros and Cons of the PowerDeWise Professional Grade Lavalier Mic
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Omnidirectional polar pattern ✔ Portable ✔ Affordable ✔ Can be used by Android and iOS users ✔ Doesn’t need an in-line battery pack or phantom power to function ✔ Has a universal cable connector | ✖️ Will need lightning to headphone jack adapter should it be used for newer Apple devices |
#9: Audio-Technica AT829CW Lavalier Microphone
If you plan on doing any streaming, singing, or public speaking and want to use a great wireless Lavalier for said applications, then do check out the Audio-Technica AT829CW! This is a condenser mic with a cardioid polar pattern that is designed for professional applications and theater performances.
The AT829CW has a wide-range capability to ensure clean, accurate reproduction of sound while churning out high intelligibility for users. It also helps that the cardioid polar patterns produce a 120-degree angle of acceptance for added audio clarity.
This mic is designed to be worn on one’s clothing, which is why it comes equipped with a clothing clip. To prevent hearing the clothing rustle or wind noise from one’s mouth, the ATR829CW has a built-in windscreen.
Pros and Cons of the Audio-Technica AT829CW Lavalier Microphone
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Affordable ✔ Good for professional use ✔ Clear and excellent audio pickup | ✖️ Thick cable can be quite difficult to hide |
#10: Sennheiser MKE 2
The Sennheiser MKE 2 provides one of the clearest and most accurate frequency responses you may find in a Lavalier. Its omnidirectional pickup pattern allows the MKE 2 to produce a natural sound, which makes it a great pick for performers.
Furthermore, the Sennheiser MKE 2 makes use of materials that protect the microphone itself from sweat. This means you can wear the MKE 2 on-stage or on a hot, sunny day out the field and you’ll be sure that your device will be protected. Not to mention, its cable is stainless-steel reinforced, which is another reason why several Broadway productions and TV sets use the MKE 2 as their lav of choice.
For versatility and universal compatibility, you can purchase the MKE 2 in various connector options such as 3-pin jack, XLR, or open-end. Regardless if you want to purchase one or all three, the MKE 2 will always come with a windshield, which can be easily removed in case you want the microphone to look more discreet on or off-camera.
Pros and Cons of the Sennheiser MKE 2
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Sweat-proof ✔ Durable design ✔ Clear frequency response | ✖️ Expensive ✖️ Connector options are purchased separately |
Do Lavalier Mics Sound Good?
When used correctly, Lavalier microphones sound good and warrant their use. Most people use them for podcasts, stage performances, presentations, broadcasts, and videos. In all those cases and more, lav mics are placed close to the breastbone or clipped to the lapel of clothes as this allows the mics to pick up the naturally resonating frequencies of the human voice.
What is the Biggest Disadvantage of Lavalier Mics?
While lav mics sound good, they also come with some challenges as well. The small profile of a Lavalier microphone is great, however, there are times that interviewees forget they are wearing the mic and forget that they’re being recorded. Individuals who speak animatedly can risk bumping the microphone, resulting in distortion in the audio.
There is also the risk of rubbing the lapel microphone against clothing. Additionally, there’s the slight trouble of not knowing where to clip the microphone if the person is wearing clothes without a lapel, collar, or buttonhole. There are also times when interviewees are wearing clothing made with delicate fabrics. Lav mics tend to have clips with tiny teeth that can damage delicate fabrics.
Just like any other product in the market, a Lavalier microphone has pros and cons. Despite a few disadvantages, a Lavalier mic is still great to use and can achieve exceptional sound quality when used properly.
What Makes a Good Lav Mic?
A good Lavalier mic can be judged by its reach and polar pattern. Lav mics can be divided into two groups, namely transparent and proximity.
Transparent vs. Proximity
Transparent lavaliers provide a natural sound that can be described as transparently eavesdropping on the speaker. Transparent lav microphones also display a gradual taper over a few feet of distance and have a slight increase in room noise. Filmmakers often use them as they can cleanly pick up sound from several feet away.
On the other hand, proximity lavaliers have less of a reach than transparent ones and therefore are necessary to be placed no more than several inches from the speaker’s mouth. Proximity lavaliers enhance and emphasize the voice close-up, providing a rich, announcer feel to the sound. Additionally, they are capable of isolating the speaker’s voice from the background. These are mainly used by radio and television broadcasters, news anchors, interviews, lectures, studios, and the like.
Microphone’s Directionality: Omnidirectional vs. Unidirectional
As for pickup patterns, lavaliers can either have an omnidirectional polar pattern or unidirectional (cardioid.) Cardioid pickup patterns allow a mic to have a definite front and back. This means a cardioid lav would always need to be pointed directly toward the mouth. Cardioid lavaliers are ideally used in lectures and presentations as they can reduce audience noise and limit feedback. These can also be used in broadcast studios and radio.
Omni directional lapel mic picks up sounds regardless of their direction and doesn’t need to be lined up towards the mouth. This allows omnidirectional lapel mics to be mounted on a lot of things: loose clothing, shoulder straps, hats, hair, eyeglass frames, and the like.
The only thing that you need to take note of when using omnidirectional lapel microphones is the distance. Lapel microphones should be used at least 15cm from the source of sound as these lapel microphones are critical in placement when you’re looking for a great sound.
Most film and video applications make use of an omnidirectional lavalier. Omnidirectional condensers are also used thanks to their operating frequency ranges or frequency response ranges. Keep in mind these basic characteristics will be able to help you in choosing the best Lavalier microphone for any situation you might need it for.
Are Cheap Lavalier Mics Any Good?
Most people think that Lavalier microphones are on the expensive side, but there are also lav mics that don’t cost an arm and a leg. Despite their price tag, a cheaper lavalier microphone is also capable of producing good audio quality.
Some of the Lavalier microphones may not be on par with high-end microphones but they are good enough, especially for beginners who are just starting with creating content.
Conclusion
We hope that you’ve found this guide on the best Lavalier microphones useful and informative. Do remember that a lot of times, the best Lavalier mic isn’t necessarily the most expensive one. Numerous options in the market cover a wide range of applications and budgets. Consider the options to find the best Lavalier microphone for you.
Editor’s Choice
Røde SmartLav+
One of the best Lavalier microphones right now is the Røde SmartLav+. This microphone is the ultimate choice for most professionals as it records great audio without bulky equipment. Lavalier microphones are the best solution when you need to record content on the go, and the Rode SmartLav+ makes creating content effortless and convenient.
Specifically designed to work with mobile devices, the SmartLav+ is essentially plug-and-play, making it an excellent solution for capturing quality audio without needing a complicated setup. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, the SmartLav+ is an excellent choice if you want crisp and clear audio quality in any production that you work on.
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